Veterans Program Type: CRU Programs

CRU: Female Recreation Retreat

  • 1 minute read

  • April 13, 2026

A single-day Recreation Retreat at a private property with a pond for water sports, acres of land for hiking, adaptive Pilates equipment inside the house along with an aromatherapy table, and ample space for yoga or other exercising.
Activity options include but are not limited to: hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, yoga, qigong, and Pilates.
A home-cooked healthy and filling meal will also be provided on-site.
  • Who: Female Veterans & First Responders (Up to 10)
  • When: Saturday May 2, 2025
  • What: Recreation Retreat
  • Where: Ballston Spa, NY (Private Property)
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

You must register using the Eventbrite Link.

Point of Contact:
Margaret Currier
CRU Ambassador (NY)
MargaretC@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

April 13, 2026

CRU: Equine Therapy

  • 2 minutes read

  • December 16, 2025

Get ready for an awesome day out Horseback Riding sponsored by Higher Ground USA! Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this in-person adventure is all about connecting with horses and enjoying the great outdoors. Feel the thrill as you trot through beautiful trails, ride on the beach, breathe in fresh air, and make some unforgettable memories with fellow veterans and/or first responders. Don’t miss out on this fun, relaxed ride that’s perfect for anyone looking to unwind and try something new!

Come in comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes. After the ride we will head over to Big Kahuna for lunch!

Equine therapy offers several benefits, including improving emotional awareness, enhancing communication skills, and promoting trust and relationship-building. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by encouraging participants to connect with horses, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. Additionally, it boosts confidence, self-esteem, and social skills, while also providing a safe space for individuals to work through trauma and past experiences. The therapy can also improve physical coordination and motor skills through activities like riding and grooming.

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (up to 10)
  • When: December 19, 2025
  • What: Equine Therapy & Lunch
  • Where: San Diego, CA (Pony Land)
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

You must register for this event using the Eventbrite Link

Point of Contact:
Beatriz Silva
HG CRU Ambassador (San Diego, CA)
BeatrizS@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

December 16, 2025

CRU: Kayaking

  • 1 minute read

  • December 16, 2025

A half-day kayaking experience designed to offer CRU participants a meaningful opportunity for physical activity and social connection in a natural setting. The event aims to strengthen muscles, improve social interactions, and provide stress relief. Guided by experienced instructors, whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the water and soak up the sun. Meet new friends, paddle through beautiful scenery, and make some awesome memories. Don’t forget your sunscreen and good vibes—we’ll take care of the rest. See you on the water!

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (up to 10)
  • When: January 24, 2025
  • What: Kayaking
  • Where: Coronado, CA (Crown Cove Aquatic Center)
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

You must register for this event using the Eventbrite Registration Page!

Point of Contact:
Beatriz Silva
HG CRU Ambassador (San Diego, CA)
BeatrizS@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

December 16, 2025

CRU: Bowling

  • 1 minute read

  • December 12, 2025

A single-day bowling experience designed to offer CRU participants a meaningful opportunity for physical activity and social connection in a relaxing environment. The event aims to improve social interactions, provide exercise, and relieve stress. Bowling offers numerous benefits, including physical activity, social interaction, and stress relief. It can improve muscle strength and flexibility, boost hand-eye coordination, and even help with weight management. Bowling can also provide a sense of community and improve mental well-being.

No experience necessary. All gear/equipment will be provided. Dress appropriately for the weather. Food will be served.

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (up to 12)
  • When: Jan 25, 2026
  • What: Bowling
  • Where: Humble, TX
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

Register HERE, or by using the “register” button link on this page.

Point of Contact:
Dennis King
HG CRU Ambassador (TX)
DennisK@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

December 12, 2025

CRU: Yoga & Soundbath

  • 1 minute read

  • December 10, 2025

Military, Veterans, & First Responders join us and dive into the New Year with an intentional setting & rejuvenating gentle yoga experience followed by brief meditation with a sound bath for extra relaxation. Then we’ll head over to the cafe to catch up and connect over some scrumptious food. Perfect way to reset your mind and body while meeting some awesome people. Don’t miss out on this refreshing experience!

 

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (Up to 10)
  • When: January 4, 2025
  • What: Yoga & Soundbath
  • Where: Fairlawn, OH (Yoga Bliss)
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

Register Here, or using the “Register” button on this page.

Point of Contact:
Candace Kaptain
HG CRU Ambassador (OH)
CandaceK@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

December 10, 2025

CRU: Top Golf

  • 1 minute read

  • December 5, 2025

Higher Ground is proud to offer a single-day Topgolf experience designed to offer CRU participants a meaningful opportunity for physical activity and social connection in a relaxed setting. Topgolf is a fun and inclusive experience that offers several benefits; It’s a social activity that promotes physical activity, provides an opportunity to improve golf skills, and offers a relaxed atmosphere with good food and (non alcoholic) drinks.

No experience necessary, no gear required! Come enjoy great games, cool vibes, and some friendly competition in person. It’s all about good times and great swings—no matter your skill level. Simply come as you are, dressed for the weather (bays are covered and heat but open to the outdoors- layers suggested). Clubs, training, tips & tricks, and light food/drinks will all be provided.

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (Up to 12)
  • When: February 22, 2026
  • What: Top Golf
  • Where: Akron, OH (Top Golf)
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

Register Here, or using the “Register” button on this page.

Point of Contact:
Candace Kaptain
HG CRU Ambassador (OH)
CandaceK@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

December 5, 2025

CRU: Holiday Sweat & Restore

  • 1 minute read

  • December 3, 2025

Unwrap a little holiday hustle! Holiday Sweat blends CrossFit, yoga, and a soothing sound bath. Veterans/First Responders only event!

Holiday Sweat & Restore with Kai: 30min led HIIT workout + 30min Yoga & Sound Bath to take care of YOU during the holiday season.

Refreshments will be served afterwards.

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (Up to 15)
  • When: December 20, 2025
  • What: Crossfit, yoga, and soundbath
  • Where: Southern Pines, NC (Hot Asana Yoga Studios)
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

Point of Contact:
Jessica Houfek
HG CRU Ambassador (Raeford, NC)
JessicaH@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

December 3, 2025

CRU: Top Golf

  • 2 minutes read

  • November 17, 2025

Higher Ground is proud to offer a single-day Topgolf experience designed to offer CRU participants a meaningful opportunity for physical activity and social connection in a relaxed setting. Topgolf is a fun and inclusive experience that offers several benefits; It’s a social activity that promotes physical activity, provides an opportunity to improve golf skills, and offers a relaxed atmosphere with good food and (non alcoholic) drinks.

No experience necessary, no gear required! Simply come as you are, dressed for the weather (bays are covered and open to the outdoors). Clubs, training, tips & tricks, and light food/drinks will all be provided.

This event is 100% free to registered participants, you need only to get yourself to and from the event location.

No surprise guests; If you know someone who is also a veteran or first responder, please have them register separately.

PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER if you believe you may not be able to make it. If you bail last minute, that takes the spot which another veteran/FR could have used, and we pay for the spots in advance. Thank you 🙂

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (Up to 20)
  • When: December 14, 2025
  • What: Top Golf
  • Where: Virginia Beach, VA (Top Golf)
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

You must register using the Eventbrite Link.

Point of Contact:
Kesha Bruington
CRU Ambassador (DC/VA)
KeshaB@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

November 17, 2025

CRU: Yoga & Sim Golf

  • 1 minute read

  • November 12, 2025

Vets, FR, active duty: come out for a midday of yoga class, followed by Trackman Simulator golf & lunch – sponsored by Higher Ground!

Higher Ground invites active duty, veterans & first responders to join in a day of yoga & simulator golf . Get your deep stretch and mindful connection, take some swings and enjoy camaraderie. We’ll have a mid-day session of zen yoga @ Red Yoga in downtown Eagle, then head to the course for about 2hrs of golf simulator time while we enjoy a great meal in the clubhouse.

Please do not register if you think you may not be able to make it, as that can take a slot from another participant who could benefit from attending. Each attendee must register individually in order to capture registration data.

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (Up to 8)
  • When: January 23, 2026
  • What: Yoga, Simulation Golf
  • Where: Boise, ID
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

You can Register Here for this event.

Point of Contact:
Kyle Taylor
CRU Ambassador (Boise, ID)
KyleT@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

November 12, 2025

CRU: Yoga & Sim Golf

  • 1 minute read

  • November 12, 2025

Vets, FR, active duty: come out for a midday of yoga class, followed by Trackman Simulator golf & lunch – sponsored by Higher Ground!

Higher Ground invites active duty, veterans & first responders to join in a day of yoga & simulator golf . Get your deep stretch and mindful connection, take some swings and enjoy camaraderie. We’ll have a mid-day session of zen yoga @ Red Yoga in downtown Eagle, then head to the course for about 2hrs of golf simulator time while we enjoy a great meal in the clubhouse.

Please do not register if you think you may not be able to make it, as that can take a slot from another participant who could benefit from attending. Each attendee must register individually in order to capture registration data.

  • Who: Veterans & First Responders (Up to 8)
  • When: January 2, 2026
  • What: Yoga, Simulation Golf
  • Where: Boise, ID
  • Cost: FREE – Higher Ground covers all program-related costs (excluding transportation to the event)

You can Register Here for this event.

Point of Contact:
Kyle Taylor
CRU Ambassador (Boise, ID)
KyleT@highergroundusa.org

Written by:

Adam Rund

Published on:

November 12, 2025